RIVERLAND landowners have been working with a local environmental body to decrease feral rabbit populations in the region.
Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board – in partnership with Loxton North and Bookpurnong area landholders – recently conducted a feral rabbit control program using the RHDV1-K5 virus.
Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board senior district officer Jodie Woof said increased amounts of rabbit and insect activity helped the K-5 virus spread.
“It’s important we have a range of methods to use in the rabbit control toolbox, applying them as needed depending on the situation,” Ms Woof said.
“Any type of pest animal control program is more effective when co-ordinated across the landscape with your neighbours.
“We always encourage landholders to talk to their neighbours. Pests don’t know fence lines and the impacts are often felt more broadly than just your own patch.
“Following the spring K5 rabbit virus release, many of the landholders’ implemented follow-up methods, such as running 1080 and pindone baiting programs, removing harbor, fumigating and warren destruction.”
The program was assisted by the District Council of Loxton Waikerie, which used a large machine to undertake warren ripping on a stretch of council managed land.
Loxton North grape grower Tim Petch said feral rabbit populations had been impacting his vineyard.
“We started fox baiting in autumn last year with a couple of neighbouring growers. It went so well we extended through to spring with over 470 fox baits taken,” Mr Petch said.
“We also identified areas within our vineyards that had rabbit issues from adjoining scrub.
“The rabbits were gnawing holes in our drip lines and chewing off new shoots from our young vines.
“Once the K5 virus had been laid, we noticed a reduction in the rabbit numbers. We then followed up with ripping and collapsing the warrens in amongst the hopbush to help stop the breeding cycle.”
Riverlanders interested in conducting a rabbit control program on their property can contact the Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board on 8580 1800.